Research

Research and sales go hand in hand, although researchers tend to be less customer facing. It is a researcher's job is to use historic financial data, alongside current market news and changes, to come up with views as to where the value is, and it is the sales people that communicate this to the clients. The aim is to heighten the bank’s reputation and encourage increased business to come to the bank, rather than go elsewhere.

Who to Work For

The type of company to target really depends upon what you want from the research role. Smaller investment banks may employ only a few people, which means you'll be working across the board. Larger investment banks will break the research team down into specialist subjects and niches, and you'll focus on research just within your specific area. If you're looking to work for one of the best financial research teams in the United States, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, JPMorgan, and Deutsche Bank hold the top 3 spots on the leaderboard.

Job progression & Salaries

The hierarchical system within research is practically nonexistent. While you will typically start out as an analyst, move up to associate, and perhaps reach Managing Director, how you get there can be complex and unstructured. The tricky aspect with regard to job progression within research is that it's not based upon reaching a specific set of goals, and it's only partly associated with experience in the field. Researchers gain kudos by having great ideas, and working your way up the research ladder will be based upon good, consistent performance above all else.
However, the money isn't too bad - early stage associates average around $100k, with the chance for up to a 100 percent bonus depending upon performance across the year. If you progress within the research, you can expect to earn up to $500k when you're at the top of your game.